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Cetuximab is active and well tolerated in metastatic CRC refractory to irinotecan, oxaliplatin, and fluoropyrimidines. The severity of rash was related to efficacy. Neither EGFR kinase domain mutations nor EGFR gene amplification appear to be essential for response to cetuximab in this setting.

Background. A case of reversible cardiogenic shock linked to 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) was observed. Recognizing the increasing use of 5‐FU, the authors tried to map this syndrome. Methods. They reviewed 134 additional case reports, retrieved information from literature searches, focused on clinical features, and discussed possible pathophysiologic findings and prevention of this syndrome. Results. Although angina and electrocardiographic changes were common and reproducible (approximately 90% each), coronary artery disease was found in a few patients. A total of 33 patients had severe left ventricular dysfunction, 28 without evidence of myocardial infarction. The symptoms were responsive to conservative management (90%). Conclusions. Cardiac toxicity is a little known complication of 5‐FU therapy, with an unknown but significant incidence. It is highly treatable.